The Effect of Orientation and Sex on Evolutionarily Relevant Aspects of Mating Behaviour

Abstract

Background: Evolutionary theory has discovered salient sex differences in mating behaviour, such as female’s preference for high social status in a partner and male’s preference for a physically attractive partner (Buss et al., 1990). While theories on homosexuality remain speculative, studies have determined that orientation also affects behaviour. Very little research has been carried out for bisexual individuals. Aims: The current study aims to provide a contemporary exploration of mating behaviour, including bisexual individuals, to evaluate theories of sex and orientation. Procedure: Participants filled out an online form detailing certain mating behaviours: number of preferred partners over varying times; preference for high social status and/or physical attractiveness of a prospective partner; and whether the participant was more likely to experience emotional or sexual jealousy. Findings: Most findings followed previous literature, except that heterosexual women and homosexual men placed the most emphasis on physical attractiveness. Bisexual participants preferred more sexual partners and appeared less concerned about physical attractiveness and social status. All participants stated they would experience emotional rather than sexual jealousy; however, heterosexual males experienced sexual jealousy more than other conditions. Conclusions: It was concluded that bisexual individuals are much more emotionally motivated than other individuals in partner choice. It was noted that socially conditioned behaviour is powerful, and evolved behaviour may be more mutable than previously thought. However, it is important that more research for bisexual individuals is carried out in order to further understanding.